How To Care For Wool Blankets
Caring for wool blankets is easier than people think. Wool doesn’t need to be washed often because it’s anti-static so it picks up less dirt and dust from the air than other fabrics. Its surface consists of microscopic fibres, like overlapping scales, so any dirt it does pick up will sit on the top of the fibres and can easily be removed.
Removing Dust
If your blanket is a little dusty give it a good shake outside. Alternatively, you can lightly run a vacuum cleaner over the surface of the blanket. Hold the nozzle just above the blanket, so that it doesn’t suck up the fabric, and ensure the suction level is on the lowest setting.
Removing Stains
Stains should be spot cleaned at once with a wool safe liquid detergent. Don’t scrub, as this will damage the fibres. Ensure all the soap is removed and dry in the same way that you would dry a wool sweater: lay the affected area on top of a towel and place another towel on top to absorb excess liquid. Once most of the moisture is removed hang over a clotheshorse or line to dry. Avoid drying in direct sunlight as this may result in colour fading.
Washing
We strongly advise taking a leaf out of your grandmother’s housekeeping book and only washing wool blankets if they are heavily soiled. Our wool blankets can be washed at 30c on the lowest spin cycle (no higher as heat will cause shrinkage and the fibres will start to felt). Always wash separately in a large machine and use a wool safe liquid detergent. If you aren’t sure about your machine’s settings check your instruction manual first.
To dry fold flat and sandwich between two towels to remove excess moisture. You will need to change the towels a few times. Once most of the moisture has been removed hang out to dry avoiding direct sunlight. Iron on a low setting and never iron when wet.
Our blankets can also be dry-cleaned.
Storage
Store in an airtight bag or container.
This advice is based on our hand-woven, pure wool, blanket collection.
For more information on the benefits of wool click here.
